The Ministry of Defence has authorized three modifications of pump-action shotguns for operational use

The Ministry of Defence has codified and authorized for operational use in the Defence Forces three modifications of domestically produced smoothbore pump-action shotguns. This was reported by the MoD’s Main Directorate for Support of the Life Cycle of Weapons and Military Equipment.

These domestically produced 12-gauge pump-action shotguns are designed to perform a wide range of tactical tasks. They use 76mm shells, which can be loaded with slugs or shot. These weapon systems stand out for their effectiveness, especially in close-quarters combat, as well as their ease of use and reliability. They are well-suited as secondary weapons for infantry operating in dense urban environments or narrow trench systems. Moreover, in the russian-Ukrainian war, pump-action shotguns have demonstrated their effectiveness as a countermeasure against enemy kamikaze drones. When loaded with shot, these shotguns are actively used to engage UAVs at close range, particularly during their approach to targets.

The Ukrainian pump-action shotguns are compact and equipped with Picatinny rails for mounting auxiliary equipment, including foregrips, reflector sights, flashlights, laser sights, and other accessories. The compactness of these weapons is ensured by folding or telescopic stocks, which are adjustable to the shooter’s anatomical parameters.

Additionally, Ukraine has started licensed serial production of Western-model small arms. These include the Czech CZ Bren 2 assault rifle, which outperforms the widely used Kalashnikov due to its ergonomic design, lighter weight, and modular design.

A reminder to defense equipment manufacturers: helpful information on the procedure for codifying new models of weapons and military equipment is available here.